Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb. chorizo sausage, casing removed
- 1 large pear, peeled and diced
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 8 flour tortillas
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp. vegetable oil
Special equipment needed:
- Large skillet
- Spatula
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the chorizo sausage until browned and cooked through.
2. Add the diced pear to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
3. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the shredded Monterey Jack cheese until melted and combined.
4. Heat a separate skillet over medium heat and brush with a small amount of vegetable oil.
5. Place a tortilla in the skillet and spoon a generous amount of the chorizo and cheese mixture onto one half of the tortilla.
6. Fold the other half of the tortilla over the filling and press down with a spatula.
7. Cook the quesadilla for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
8. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
9. Once all quesadillas are cooked, slice each into 4 wedges.
10. Serve with chopped cilantro, diced red onion, and a dollop of sour cream.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
Temperature:
- Medium-high heat for cooking the chorizo and cheese mixture
- Medium heat for cooking the quesadillas
Serving size:
- Makes 8 quesadillas, serving size is 2 wedges per person
Nutritional information:
- Calories per serving: 390
- Fat: 26g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Protein: 20g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Chorizo sausage can be substituted with ground beef or turkey
- Monterey Jack cheese can be substituted with any melting cheese such as cheddar or pepper jack
- Flour tortillas can be substituted with corn tortillas for a gluten-free option
Variations:
- Add diced jalapeno peppers for a spicy kick
- Use diced apples instead of pears for a different flavor profile
- Add black beans or corn to the chorizo and cheese mixture for added texture
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to remove the casing from the chorizo before cooking
- Use a non-stick skillet to prevent the quesadillas from sticking
- Press down on the quesadillas with a spatula while cooking to ensure the filling stays inside
Storage instructions:
- Store leftover quesadillas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat quesadillas in a skillet over medium heat until heated through
Presentation ideas:
- Arrange the quesadilla wedges on a platter with a side of sour cream for dipping
- Garnish with chopped cilantro and diced red onion for added color
Garnishes:
- Chopped cilantro
- Diced red onion
- Sour cream
Pairings:
- Serve with a side of Mexican rice and refried beans for a complete meal
- Pair with a cold beer or margarita for a refreshing drink
Suggested side dishes:
- Mexican rice
- Refried beans
- Guacamole and tortilla chips
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the quesadillas are sticking to the skillet, use more oil or a non-stick skillet
- If the filling is falling out of the quesadillas, use less filling and press down with a spatula while cooking
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the chorizo sausage until fully cooked through to prevent foodborne illness
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
Food history:
- Quesadillas originated in Mexico and were traditionally made with corn tortillas and filled with cheese and other ingredients
Flavor profiles:
- The combination of spicy chorizo and sweet pear creates a unique flavor profile
- The melted Monterey Jack cheese adds a creamy and savory element to the dish
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as an appetizer or main dish
- Great for a party or game day snack
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: Mexican